The EFL held a Checkatrade Trophy Fan Forum on Monday evening, giving supporters a platform tovoicetheir views on the competition.

The event took place at Wembley, with supporters from Sky Bet League One and League Two Clubs in attendance, while those that could not make it in person were also given the opportunity to watch via Facebook Live.See link to watch the meeting here

Supporters attending were able to pose questions to EFL Chief Executive Shaun Harvey concerning a range of subjects relating to the competition, in particular thecontinuing involvementof U21 teams, the development of young talent and the financial benefits for each participating Club. Harvey was joined by pundits Colin Murray and former Blackpool and Bristol Rovers Manager Ian Holloway. Sunderland Owner Stewart Donald, Chelsea Development Squad Manager Joe Edwards and FA Director of Pro Game Relations Andy Ambler were also guests of the evening.

Harvey confirmed that the EFL’s partnership with Checkatrade will come to an end following the conclusion of the 2018/19 season. He confirmedan agreement in principle is in place with EFL Clubs that will see the competition continue in its current format for a further three seasons, subject to an acceptable level of funding being in place. The Premier League will contribute £2.25 million to the competition this season (most of which goes into the prize money pool) and this is set to increase.

I know football fans across the country have strong views about this competition, and that Us fans are no different in this respect. I’m aware that many fans fear that the involvement of EPL U21 teams is a prelude to the introduction of B teams into the EFL (although I should add that the EFL has no plans for this) and are dismayed that some L1 and L2 clubs have their dreams of a trip to a Wembley final ended by a Premier League U21 team, but I also know that many young fans also welcome the chance to see potential future Premier league stars in action. I would like to take another opportunity to test yourviews concerning the competition. The following survey will run for the next 24 hours until 09.00 on the 14th December. I will share the results widely within the football club. ​

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Cambridge Fans United

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